Acronyms

OPQRST

Mnemonic used for gathering information about a patient's history of present illness and current symptoms.

Onset

The first component of the OPQRST mnemonic, asking what the patient was doing when symptoms began.

Provocation/Palliation

The second component of the OPQRST mnemonic, inquiring about what makes the symptoms better or worse.

Quality

The third component of the OPQRST mnemonic, asking the patient to describe what the symptom feels like.

Region/Radiation

The fourth component of the OPQRST mnemonic, concerning where the symptom is felt and if it moves anywhere.

Severity

The fifth component of the OPQRST mnemonic, asking the patient to rate their symptom on a scale of 0 to 10.

Timing

The sixth component of the OPQRST mnemonic, relating to how long symptoms have been present and when they started.

AVPU scale

A scale used to assess a patient's level of consciousness based on their response to stimuli.

PEARRL

Mnemonic for assessing pupils: Pupils Equal And Round, Regular in size, React to Light.

DCAP-BTLS

Mnemonic used for assessing potential injuries: Deformities, Contusions, Abrasions, Punctures, Burns, Tenderness, Lacerations, Swelling.

Shock

A life-threatening condition where the body doesn't get enough blood flow.

Cardiac Arrest

A sudden loss of heart function, leading to loss of consciousness and pulse.

CPR

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, a lifesaving technique used in emergencies.

Defibrillation

A medical treatment for life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias.

Primary Assessment

A quick evaluation to identify life-threatening conditions.

Secondary Assessment

A thorough head-to-toe examination after addressing immediate threats.

First Aid

Immediate care given to an injured or ill person until professional help arrives.

Wound Care

Management of a wound to ensure proper healing and prevent infection.

Splinting

The process of immobilizing an injured joint or bone to prevent movement.

Burn Treatment

Immediate care for skin damage caused by heat, chemicals, or electricity.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

A system that provides emergency medical assistance and care.

First Responder

A person with special training who can provide initial care in emergencies.

Mechanism of Injury (MOI)

The method by which an injury occurred, important for assessment.

Vital Signs

Measurements of body functions, including heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure.

Consciousness

A state of awareness of oneself and the environment; assessed in patient evaluation.

Scene Safety

Ensuring the environment is safe before providing care to patients.

Informed Consent

Permission granted by a patient who is informed about the treatment options.

AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

A device that checks heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart.

Oxygen Therapy

Administering oxygen to patients to improve oxygen saturation levels in the blood.